Unfortunately, there generally comes a time when we have to move one or more loved ones into a nursing home facility. For example, if you have aging parents who will soon need around the clock care, then it is probably time to start visiting nursing homes in the Bloomfield area to find one that is a good fit.
When searching for a nursing home, it is important to find one that will provide for your loved one's needs. In order to ensure that your parent is in good hands, there are some red flags you should watch for as you tour different facilities.
Try the food
The food that a nursing home serves is extremely important to the health of the patients. While each meal should be nutritious, it should also taste good in order to entice the residents to eat. As you walk through the cafeteria or dining area, pay close attention to what the people are eating. Does it look appetizing? Do the residents seem to be enjoying it? Also, once you select a nursing facility and get your loved one settled in, make it point to eat with him or her in the dining area in order to make sure the food still meets your standards.
Listen
As you walk the hallways, pay attention to the sounds you hear. How is the staff talking to the residents? Are they respectful to the people whom they care for? Are they respectful to each other? If it seems like the staff is rude or overly casual, it is possible they are also not providing the appropriate level of care.
Smell the air
How does the nursing home smell? While there are probably some strange odors due to a combination of special diets and medications, you should not be smelling stale urine. This might be a sign that the cleaning staff is not doing a good job of maintaining the facility.
Talk to the staff
Take some time to talk to and observe the staff. Do they seem overworked or stressed out? Many nursing homes operate with a fraction of the staff they actually need. This can lead to many nursing assistants and other staff members working double shifts or overtime on a regular basis. If this is the usual, then chances are higher that the residents are not getting the level of attention and care that they need.
In addition to the above, you should watch for other red flags that could be signs of abuse or neglect such as bruises or unexplained bedsores. If you have a loved one who has suffered an injury due to nursing home abuse, keep in mind that you have options. You might be able to file a claim against the facility so that your parent or other relative gets the justice and care he or she deserves.
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